This bill amends the current law regarding special education funding for school districts by eliminating the requirement for catastrophic special education funds to be prorated among districts. Instead, it mandates that disbursements for special education must be at least 80 percent of a district's entitlement for catastrophic aid costs in the fiscal year. The bill also clarifies that if the appropriated amount for special education aid is insufficient, the funds will still be prorated among the districts, but with the stipulation that each district receives a minimum of 80 percent of its entitlement.

Additionally, the bill modifies the funding mechanism for special education aid by appropriating necessary funds directly from the education trust fund, allowing the governor to draw warrants for payment regardless of the fund's balance. If the fund's balance falls below zero after such payments, the state comptroller is required to transfer sufficient funds from the general fund to cover the deficit. This change aims to ensure that special education programs receive consistent funding without delays, thereby supporting school districts in managing their special education costs effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 186-C:18
As Amended by the House: 186-C:18
HB773 text: 186-C:18